Underground mining is a mineral mining process that takes place underground and is usually used to extract resources such as metal ore, coal, salt, and oil. This method of mining is more complex and dangerous than surface mining, but also more challenging and productive.
The underground mining process typically includes the following steps:
Geological exploration: Before underground mining begins, detailed geological exploration work is carried out to determine the location, ore reserves and quality of the deposit. This is a very important step as it has a direct impact on extraction efficiency and cost.
Excavation of wellhead: By means of drilling and blasting, a vertical or inclined wellhead is dug on the ground or underground so that personnel and equipment can enter the well.
Erecting the well shaft: near the well head, the well shaft is installed to ensure safety and ventilation. Well shafts are usually constructed of steel pipes and are used to provide access, air circulation and the installation of equipment such as electrical wiring.
Transportation equipment installation: Install necessary transportation equipment (such as elevators, bucket elevators or steam locomotives) near the wellhead or on the track in the underground to transport ore, personnel and equipment into and out of the underground.
Drilling and blasting: Drilling equipment is used to drill holes in the working face of the well, and explosives are placed in the drilling holes and blasted to crush and separate solid minerals for subsequent transportation and processing.
Ore transportation: Use transportation equipment to transport the crushed ore to the wellhead or underground collection yard, and then transport it to the ground through elevators or conveyor belts.
Ground Processing: Once the ore is sent to the ground, it requires further processing to extract the desired useful minerals. Depending on the type of ore and the method of extraction of the target mineral, the process may include stages such as crushing, grinding, flotation and smelting.
Safety management: Underground mining is a dangerous job, so safety management is crucial. This includes rigorous training, regular inspection and maintenance of equipment, appropriate safety measures, etc. to ensure the safety and health of workers.
It should be noted that the specific process of underground mining will vary according to factors such as ore type, deposit characteristics, mining technology and equipment. In addition, with the continuous advancement of technology, some modern mining methods, such as lump ore body mining and automated mining, are also being developed and applied.
Post time: Sep-02-2023
